[quote=MN3]Capsizing on purpose is very usefull in learning the boat (esp how to right it)
everyone who sails a catamaran should do it on purpose if they haven't ever done it before (on accident or purpose) to get rid of any fear and learn what to do/not to do
Capsizing on accident can still be fun (esp on a very hot day) but there are risks (more so then when you do it on purpose)
one of the worst things that often happens is ... someone is on the trap wire and capsizes... by the time you realize your going over and you have to undo your harness hook. you are already past the point where you can slide down your tramp and you have to jump into your sail (to avoid the boom).
I have gone through the window on 3 sails so far... not a very expensive repair but a PITA and can stretch out the sail.
Tricks to not capsize:
know when not to sail (know your limits and your boats)
have crew on board in med-heavy air
know how to depower your cat:
upwind - usually means limit mast rotation, downhaul, out haul and sheet the main pretty tight
downwind - release your mast rotation limiter (if you have one), start with less downhaul (increase if needed), and steer as deep downwind as you can (but not so deep you risk an accidental gybe)
There are those who say sheet your traveler in to reduce your sail exposure to the wind, and it is true, but i would say it should only be used by people who are extreemly confidant in their boat/skills as your reaction time must be very fast and know exactly what to do in the event of a wind shift...[/quote]
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